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Japanese Proverbs & Sayings

Isoga-ba Maware



Last update January 5, 2020

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Detour (Go around) when in a hurry.

Isoga-ba Maware

急がば回れ

Words: 急がば Isoga-ba = If you are in hurry (archaic way of expression) = a form of the verb Isogu: make haste + ba: subjunctive joshi particle / 回れ Maware = the imperative form of the Mawaru; turn (go) around /

Pronunciation: [ee-saw-gah-bah mah-wah-rhe] 

English Equivalent: More haste, less speed. / Make haste slowly. / Slow and steady wins the race.

Notes: The insight here is: You should go around if you are in a hurry since the straight road may be crowded, or the shortcut may be dangerous. A steady and safe way will eventually take you to the destination faster.
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